The paper intends to analyse, in the context of the debate on synodality, what the real role of the lay faithful in synodal processes might be, taking into account the intrinsic limits deriving from canonical discipline. Expectations of a democratisation of the Church, which have been present in ecclesial discussion since the middle of the last century, need to be re-dimensioned in the light of a correct interpretation of the principle of co-responsibility of the lay faithful in the governance of the Church.